Raiders franchise safety Tyvon Branch

The Oakland Raiders have designated safety Tyvon Branch as their franchise player today. Branch recorded 109 tackles, including 80 solos, one sack and an interception last season. For the past three seasons, Branch has registered over 100 tackles. In four NFL seasons, he has six sacks and three interceptions with 347 tackles and three forced fumbles.

The Raiders still intend to try to negotiate a long-term contract with Branch, a fourth-round draft pick four years ago.

"We are pleased that Tyvon will return to the Raiders in 2012," Raiders general manager Reggie McKenzie said. "Tyvon is a talented, productive player who we hope will be wearing the Silver and Black for many years to come. We will continue to work on a long-term deal to make that happen."



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